Dr. Chen was raised in San Francisco California. She received her bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of California, Berkeley. During her undergraduate years, she worked as a biology tutor in the Student Learning Center leading study groups and mock exams for undergraduate students.

After college, she attended the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry for her doctorate degree. In dental school, Dr. Chen was an active member in student government. She was the class president in her first year and subsequently was the secretary and vice president of the student body government. She was awarded the Pierre Fauchard Academy Award, Bernard Osher Scholar and Professional Development Award for her exemplary role to the student body. In addition, her passion for outstanding patient treatment led her to receive honors in Patient Centered Care. Dr. Chen also actively participated in Delta Sigma Delta International Dental Fraternity, as the president of the fraternity, she promoted volunteerism and giving back to the community.

Dr. Chen completed her pediatric dentistry residency program at the University of California, San Francisco. She had 3 years of extensive training in treating medically compromised children and hospital dentistry. Not only did she treat the children in the San Francisco bay area, she also treated patients who traveled from the Oregon border to Los Angeles. During her residency training, Dr. Chen also completed her master’s research in caries prevention on arginine-containing toothpaste in orthodontic patients with white spot lesions. She received her Master’s degree in Oro-Craniofacial Sciences.

After her residency program, Dr. Chen married Dr. Jose Cruz, a general dentist in Winter Haven. She began working with Dr. Rogers in August 2010. She is enjoying this opportunity to serve children throughout the Central Florida area.